Public urged to take Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for self-defence

KOTA KINABALU: There is more to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) than just a sport.

“It is also a form of fitness training and self-defence,” said Professor Andy Bartholomew, one of BJJ enthusiasts in Sabah.

And with attacks and bully cases becoming more rampant of late, he urged the public to take up the martial art to protect themselves.

“We read and watch viralled videos about these attacks and bullies almost daily, and I believe that by learning selfdefence techniques, one can protect oneself effectively when faced with such a situation,” he said.

Bartholomew said this after successfully organising The

Founders Seminar on BJJ, here, recently, which saw two very established coaches - Sabah BJJ pioneer Allen Chong and founder of the Grappling Fight Team in Malaysia, Professor Pedro Falbo, sharing their experiences and expertise with participants.

Chong, who was the first Malaysian to have competed in the UFC cage at The Ultimate Fighter: China, was also elevated to the title Professor by Falbo, who is a BJJ Fifth Degree Black Belt holder, at the event.

Bartholomew added that the popularity of BJJ continues to rise as it gains recognition for its effectiveness in self-defense and fitness training.

BJJ was established in Sabah in 2007 and has since flourished, with numerous BJJ gyms now operating in the state capital.

“The event, which was graced by Sabah Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Association president Professor Soh Boon How, focuses on reconnecting with one’s origins, besides elevating the standard of BJJ within the local community, evoking nostalgia among participants,” said Bartholomew in a statement yesterday.

The event also served as a graduation day for all members, with coach Michael Chong being promoted to black belt and bestowed with the title of Professor.

For those wishing to take up BJJ, Bartholomew can be contacted at andygbb@yahoo. com.